I just spotted a male Ruby-throated Hummingbird at the feeder. I quickly replaced the nectar with fresh even though what was out there was only a day old. I just figure it's the least I can do for a bird who has recently travelled up from the Gulf of Mexico!
The bluebirds appear to be just fine. I checked on them yesterday and they are huge now. I can't quite describe the experience of seeing them go from such tiny nestlings into fledglings in less than two weeks. I'm hoping that they fledge on Friday so I'll get to see it. Otherwise, we'll be out of town. While we're gone, their mealworm supply will dry up. I think that it's alright if they fledge and we're not here to give worms since Mama and Papa will be busy teaching them how to catch insects. They won't leave the cover of the trees for a few days anyway.
I'm still wondering what bird the Cooper's Hawk caught two days ago. I am still having a hard time believing that it was a Crow, but I do see them out in that area of the yard. But Grackles are out there, too. And could a Cooper's take down a Crow? They are very large birds.
The pair of Tree Swallows continue to claim the box although they have yet to start building a nest. I'm getting a little frustrated with them; I sure would like to see some efforts being made on their part. I mean, the bluebirds will already have fledged 5 little ones by the time the tree swallows get their act together to nest-build and mate.
Posted by Elizabeth at April 20, 2005 10:15 AM